Ramesh refuses to take questions on China fiasco

Environment and Forests Minister Jairam Ramesh today refused to comment on his controversial remarks in China where he criticised the Indian government’s approach towards Chinese companies, a day after he apologised to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for the remarks.

“I want to make it clear that I am not going to comment on China. I am here to talk about greenhouse gas emission only. I will not take any question on China. If you want, you may leave the conference. Please ask questions related to global warming only,” said an irritated Ramesh while addressing a National Workshop by Indian Network for Climate Change Assessment here.

The PM’s strong words to the environment minister came two days after Ramesh reportedly told correspondents in Beijing that the home ministry was “overly defensive” and “alarmist” in its approach towards the entry of Chinese companies in India.

The workshop was eagerly awaited by journalists, particularly photojounalists, who surrounded the minister here and furiously started taking his photographs as he entered the Ashoka Hotel banquet hall to release a report on Greenhouse Gas Emission 2007.

The conference was about India’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2007 and Ramesh went on to explain how this was the most updated inventory issued by a developing country and estimation of GHG — a voluntary action — was not linked with international negotiations and agreements.

Throughout his address, Ramesh explained to mediapersons and scientists the contribution of different sectors of the economy to GHG. However, there was a buzz in the conference hall and a sense of restlessness on when the minister would talk about China.

After his address, mediapersons surrounded him for his comment on the China issue, but in vain.

One reporter said, “We hear the Prime Minister’s Office has asked you to clarify your remarks in China” to which Ramesh said, “Had that been the case, then I would have been informed and not through journalists” and proceeded to the area where lunch was being served.